What is Brain-Based Learning?

“Brain-Based Education is the purposeful engagement of strategies based on principles derived from solid scientific research.”

Research in related fields such as social neuroscience, psychoimmunology, behavioral genetics, psychobiology, cognitive science, neuroscience and physiology also play a role.

Brain-Based Learning is also the application of a meaningful group of principles that represent our understanding of how our brain works in the context of education.

Brain-Based Learning is simply the engagement of strategies based on body/mind/brain research..

Brain-Based Learning is not a panacea or magic bullet to solve all of education’s problems. Anyone who represents that to others is misleading them. There is not yet a “one size fits all” brain-based program, model or package for schools to follow.

What Does a Brain-Based Teacher Do?

A brain compatible teacher teaches with the brain in mind.

This educator understands the principles and uses strategies in a purposeful way. This path is all about an educator who understands the reasoning behind their teaching. It is also one who stays constantly updated through continuous professional development.

Examples of Brain-Based Learning Applications

Evidence suggests that stress is a significant factor in creativity, memory, behavior and learning. Teachers who purposely manage stress factors (purposefully decrease or increase stress) in class are likely to experience a positive classroom environment. There are many ways to decrease stress in the classroom, such as integrating stretching exercises, incorporating recess, teaching coping skills, and utilizing physical education.

Evidence suggests that moderate glucose levels enhance learner’s memory-making. Since glucose can be enhanced through food, stimulating emotions and physical activity, teachers can manage their instructional strategies so that students can better maintain moderate glucose levels. This strategy can help students form stronger memories.

Be Sure to Keep in Mind…

Brain-based teaching is all about smarter, more purposeful teaching that can reach a greater number of students.

It’s not any one single thing you do. It’s more about the on-going, purposeful aggregate of environment, instruction and curriculum strategies that makes it all work.